Oilfield Truck Accident Causes

Oilfield trucks are used to transport equipment, extracted oil and gas, and workers. While there are a number of potential oilfield truck accident causes, some of the most common include:

Driver negligence

Oilfield truck operators can be guilty of the same types of negligence as passenger vehicle motorists, including driving while intoxicated, using a smartphone, aggressive driving, or speeding. However, due to the size and weight of these trucks, the damage done in a collision will likely be far more severe.

Poor maintenance

Oilfield trucks require safety checks and routine maintenance to ensure safe operation. If management attempts to save time and money by neglecting truck maintenance, a serious accident may be the result.

Long work hours

Oilfield employees often work 12- to 15-hours daily, and operating a large truck while they're so exhausted may lead to serious collisions. While most truck drivers must comply with restrictions on their work hours, oilfield drivers are exempt from some of these requirements.

The typical commercial truck driver must rest for a minimum of 34 hours between shifts, but an oilfield driver only has to rest for 24 hours. Unlike other large truck operators, oilfield drivers are permitted to log time spent waiting at the jobsite as time off. This is a significant difference, since wait times are often 10 hours or more, and drivers have no place to sleep while they wait.

You Need an Attorney

If you were injured in an oilfield trucking accident, you may be entitled to damages for your medical bills, loss of income, and pain and suffering. You need an attorney who knows how to protect your rights and help you receive the compensation you deserve. To learn more about what the law offices of Steve M. Lee, P.C., can do for you, visit us on Facebook.